Hooked on Sweets

Nov 3, 2011

I could swear that I'm addicted to sugar? Is this possible?

Not the way you can be addicted to a drug. But sugar triggers the release of opiates in the brain, which makes you feel good. Unfortunately, eating too much sugar is a recipe for weight gain. Start learning to rely on fruit. It offers naturally occurring sugar--but less than what's in most added-sugar treats--plus vitamins, minerals, and fill-you-up fiber.

Source: Holly McCord,RD, a registered dietitian, is former Nutrition Editor of Prevention and author of Win the Cholesterol War (Rodale 2001).

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